Israel Cycling Academy has signed Canadian climber James Piccoli for the 2020 season.

This is the first signing for the team after its new WorldTour status for 2020 was announced. The Canadian rides currently in the Continental team Elevate-KHS Pro Cycling and has had an astounding 2019 season that includes stage victories in the Tour of Utah, the Tour de Taiwan and the Tour de Beauce, as well as the win in the Tour of the Gila and the second overall position at the Tour of Utah.

"I had a lot of teams interested in signing me," said Piccoli. "But I chose Israel Cycling Academy because of their belief in me and the amazing staff that they have. They really believe that I can be a great rider one day, and offered me an environment where I can adjust to European racing while helping the team out as best I can.

"I’m a climber/GC rider so I will probably be the last guy to help Dan (Martin) and Ben (Hermans) in the hard races, and I’ll also look to take my shot at the win in target races when I can."

Israel Cycling Academy's manager Kjel Carlstrom thinks the Canadian can adjust quickly to European racing. "After Piccoli’s great season we are sure he can still progress and be a very valuable team member for Israel Cycling Academy's first year in the WorldTour. James has some great climbing legs, but his qualities go beyond that and can prove to be a versatile rider."